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Mississippi lawmakers push bills to ban cellphone use in schools
Mississippi lawmakers push for statewide cellphone restrictions in schools following local successes showing 88% of teachers report improved student engagement, aiming to address mental health and classroom focus.
On Wednesday, the House Education Committee passed a bill requiring local school boards to restrict cellphone use during the school day, after the Senate Education Committee greenlit a similar bill last week.
Amid rising teen mental-health issues, researchers link cellphone use among school-aged kids to negative outcomes, while Rep. Sam Creekmore said he worries about students' phone use and its mental impact.
Marshall County School District in Holly Springs requires phones be stored in lockable pouches, and 88% of teachers reported improved student engagement; Jackson Public Schools saw better management and fewer phone-related infractions.
After a measure that died last session, Rep. Sam Creekmore said he is optimistic this year because it’s a legislative priority, despite parents and law enforcement concerns about emergency contact.
Research in other states shows a Florida study found test scores rose two years after restrictions despite an initial disciplinary uptick, and Brigette Whaley reported phone-free policies reduced anxiety and drama.